Top Destinations With the Clearest Water in the World

How often have you excitedly arrived at a beach or lake, only to be disheartened by the murky water? Sure, you could take a swim, but the uncertainty of what brushed against your leg—be it seaweed, an odd-looking aquatic creature, or a dubious individual with snorkeling gear—makes it a risky venture. The gamble just doesn't seem worth it.

Imagine if you could actually witness what lies beneath the water's surface (so cool, yeah). Well, consider yourself fortunate, because each of these tropical destinations features water so clear, it's akin to swimming inside a bottle of Poland Spring. Or, for those feeling extra posh, a Fiji bottle.

Top Clearest Water Destinations in the World

Ahead, let me explain and uncover some of the most stunning places with the clearest water ever.

Laghi di Fusine, Italy

Situated approximately a mile from the Italian/Slovenian border, this tranquil duo of glacial lakes captivates with their remarkable clarity. While both lakes possess crystal-clear waters, it's the larger one that steals the spotlight, attracting a flurry of tourist activity. The water temperatures are typically too chilly for a swim, but you can intimately explore the underwater world by renting one of the available rowboats. When rowing loses its charm, explore the hiking trails enveloping the lakes, treating yourself to awe-inspiring vistas of the neighboring Julian Alps.

Jiuzhaigou Valley, China

Legend has it that the 108 lakes scattered across the Jiuzhaigou Valley nature reserve came into existence when a goddess accidentally dropped the mirror gifted to her by her lover, causing it to shatter into 108 pieces. Despite the divine mishap, each of these picturesque lakes is truly spectacular, with some standing out prominently. Notable among them are Five Flower Lake and Five Color Pond, positioned at opposite ends of the Y-shaped valley, living up to their names with vibrant hues and crystal-clear waters. However, the color palette is not limited to just five; it's more akin to the extensive array of 128 crayons in a Crayola box, complete with charming shades like cornflower and burnt orange—undoubtedly the best colors in that box.

Lefkada, Greece

Lefkada boasts some of Greece's finest beaches, especially along the western coast overlooking the Ionian Sea, spanning from Porto Katsiki in the south to Kathisma in the north. Whether adorned with pebbles or embraced by soft white sand, these beaches share a common feature: refreshingly cool, turquoise waters of such clarity that you won't fret about stumbling upon hidden rocks beneath the surface. Bid farewell to those uncool water shoes; there's no need to pack them or, better yet, just toss them out altogether. Seriously, who even wears water shoes these days?

Rio da Prata, Bonito, Brazil

The rivers encircling the Brazilian municipality of Bonito owe their remarkable transparency to the abundant underground limestone, acting as a natural filter. 
Among them, the Rio da Prata stands out for its exceptional clarity, providing snorkelers with a captivating view of the glistening scales of golden Dorados (also known as delightful mahi-mahi) and yellow-finned Piraputangas swimming alongside them.

Zamami, Japan

In the post-World War II era, Zamami emerged as a sought-after destination, renowned for its petite size and exceptionally clear waters. Popular sites like Furuzamami Beach draw tourists eager to scuba dive and snorkel amidst vibrant fish and coral reefs. The allure extends beyond underwater adventures, as visitors also seek the opportunity to witness humpback whales during the spring and winter months, whether from sightseeing boats or dedicated observation gazebos. The island's tourism boom is so significant that a staggering 92% of its 924 residents are employed in the tourism industry, highlighting its pivotal role in shaping the local economy.

Conclusion

These top destinations with some of the clearest waters in the world offer a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you're looking to relax on a pristine beach or dive into crystal-clear depths, these aquatic gems provide a sublime connection with the beauty of nature. So, pack your bags, head out to these destinations, and soak in the purity of the waters.